Iraq 6 Day Itinerary

Iraq 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Baghdad - Exploring the Capital City

  • Arrive at Baghdad International Airport. (Note: Check visa requirements before your trip.)
  • Visit the Al-Mansur Mosque (built during the Abbasid Caliphate), and Al-Khulafa’ al-Rashidun Mosque, the largest mosque in Iraq.
  • Explore the National Museum of Iraq to learn about the rich history and culture of Mesopotamia.
  • Dine at local restaurants offering traditional Iraqi cuisine like Masgouf (grilled carp) or Samesem (Iraqi soup).

Day 2: Baghdad - Hillah (Approx. 1 hour drive)

  • Head to the ancient city of Hillah, known for its religious significance and historical sites.
  • Visit the Imam Ali Shrine, one of the most important shrines in Iraq.
  • Explore the Abbasid Palace Ruins and the Samarra Archaeological City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 3: Hillah - Najaf (Approx. 2 hours drive)

  • Drive to Najaf, one of the holiest cities in Islam.
  • Visit the Imam Ali Mosque and the Green Dome, the tomb of Imam Ali, the fourth Caliph of Islam.
  • Spend some time at the Fatima al-Masuma Shrine, another important religious site.

Day 4: Najaf - Karbala (Approx. 1 hour drive)

  • Head to Karbala, a city of profound religious significance for Shia Muslims.
  • Visit the Hussein Mosque and the Abbas Mosque, both built over the shrines of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and his brother Abbas.
  • Participate in the evening procession known as “Arbaeen” (if traveling during Arbaeen season).

Day 5: Karbala - Samarra (Approx. 1.5 hours drive)

  • Drive to Samarra, another ancient city with important religious and historical sites.
  • Visit the Aswad al-Aqlam Mosque and the Spiral Minaret, a unique architectural wonder built during the Abbasid era.
  • Explore the Ismail Mosque and the al-Mutawakkil Mosque, both featuring beautiful tilework and architecture.

Day 6: Samarra - Baghdad (Approx. 1.5 hours drive) - Departure

  • Return to Baghdad.
  • Spend your last hours shopping for souvenirs or relaxing by the Tigris River before departing from Baghdad International Airport.

Things to Know:

  • Iraq is predominantly Muslim, so it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions.
  • Always check for updates on travel advisories and safety information before your trip.
  • English is not widely spoken, so having an Arabic translator or learning basic phrases can be helpful.
  • Public transportation is limited, so hiring a private car with a driver may be more convenient.
  • Most restaurants in Iraq are halal, serving only meat from animals that have been slaughtered according to Islamic law.